Where are they now? Charles Williams Sr., MD

By Melissa G. Landry | Photo: Courtesy of Charles Williams

Charles Williams Sr., MD, has a unique history with Ochsner. He was referred to Ochsner for care while managing congestive heart failure and participated in the first multiorgan domino transplant at the Ochsner Transplant Institute. Now, in the fifth year of his posttransplant care, he is enjoying life with his kids, grandkids and wife, Gwen.

Besides enjoying their retirement with the family, Dr. Williams and Gwen are on a personal mission to help patients and families, particularly those facing the daunting challenges of post-transplant care.

Dr. Williams praises Gwen for her devotion and support. She went to every clinic visit, engaged with doctors, nurses and other medical staff about his care and learned what he would need to do after his surgery. Gwen recorded vital signs every day, watched over medications and reported back to nurse managers at every outpatient visit.

Charles and Gwen celebrating his retirement from the Air Force in 2012.

“My therapy and medication regimens were overwhelming immediately post surgery,” Dr. Williams said. “She took on the task of learning everything from the therapists and nurses and, in turn, teaching it to me.”

The experience showed them how overwhelming post-transplant care can be, and they felt guided to relieve that burden for others through the Cardiology Caregiver Support Fund. Their generosity provides educational and emotional support to assist patients and caregivers with their everyday, post-transplant needs.